VPN 101: What is it?
A few definitions :
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VPN (Virtual Private Network) : Generally speaking the goal is to link two distant computers connected to the public internet through a secure link. A VPN connection comes down to establishing a virtual "tunnel" within the existing connection. It would be like having a pipe carrying oil inside a bigger pipe carrying water. Respective contents are preserved and don't mix.
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Encryption : replacing data with encoded symbols to prevent unauthorized access. Strenght of the encryption depends of the ciphers used.
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Authentification : Various protocols and mechanisms used to ensure both ens of a connection are really who they prentend to be. -
IP address : Unique number composed of 4 groups of 3 numbers that identifies a specific computer on the internet.
VPN principles:
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Unprotected "standard" connection:
Any time you use the internet from home, your IP address is sent out to anyone you are trying to connect to.
This is perfectly normal. Otherwise, you would not be able to get any answers.
The diagram belows illustrates the standard connection data flow.
From your computer to the site you are visiting, your IP address travels unprotected all the way.
You are easily identifiable and all the content of your connection can be monitored and/or recorded.
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VPN protected connection:
Whe you are using a VPN service, this is what happens:
Anytime you are using a VPN service, all data between your computer and the VPN access point are encrypted. Anyone who would snoop on your connection would not be able to decipher what is it about.
From the VPN access point to the final destination, data is transmitted in clear form BUT your IP address is no longer associated with it. Instead, one of the platform IP addresses is used.
What's the point?
First of all, to protect you. You IP address is easily identifiable, like your phone number and it's child play to link it with you.
When you are using a VPN service, it's like having your phone number on the black list and a scrambler hooked up to your phone so nobody can eavesdrop on your conversations.
Whatever your purpose, donwloading files, writing or reading mail, from a hotspot, at home, hotel room on the road or your workplace, using a VPN service guarantees the privacy of your communications.
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